EMT Basic Program

Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) are emergency responders trained to provide immediate
care for sick or injured people and transport them to medical facilities. On ambulances,
they work in teams of two and may request additional assistance from the police and/or
fire departments. Their team may consist of two EMTs, or they may be assigned to work
with a Paramedic. EMT certification is also required for most firefighter positions.
Additionally, EMTs are used to provide medical support at sporting events and concerts.

While transporting the patient to the medical facility, the team remains in contact
with the health care team at the hospital in order to receive special instructions
and allow the hospital to be prepared for their arrival. At the scene of the emergency
the team assesses the individuals to determine the nature and extent of the injuries
and illnesses, while also determining if the patients have other preexisting conditions
that should be considered during treatment, such as epilepsy or diabetes. Emergency
medical technicians may open airways, restore breathing, control bleeding, treat for
shock, administer epinephrine, administer oxygen, assist in childbirth, treat heart
attack victims using an automated external defibrillator, and perform other basic
procedures. When working with a Paramedic, EMTs provide invaluable assistance in the
performance of their duties.

Careers within the field of Emergency Medical Technology (EMT) are in great demand
due to a growing aging population. The EMT program at Las Positas College provides
students with the training to become first-responders in the event of a medical emergency.
The skills taught in this program include pre-hospital care and transport as well
as the advanced definitive care provided in the emergency department in hospitals.